Holder said: "I am confirming today that, for purposes of federal law, these marriages will be recognized as lawful and considered eligible for all relevant federal benefits on the same terms as other same-sex marriages", and he added: "These families should not be asked to endure uncertainty regarding their status as the litigation unfolds".

Then, same-sex couples who married in Utah during the 17 days it was legal can file joint federal taxes and are entitled to all federal benefits granted to married couples.